Siquijor| Blue Wave Resort

happened on Feb. 23-24, 2017

Since our tickets were booked in less than a year, I also booked for a hotel.  It was not easy looking for one that is affordable and nice so I relied much on reviews. I'm so glad to chance upon by this one through Agoda for only Php1,800.00 per night with free breakfast for two.  

the beach front

I love that it is remotely located but not too far from the port (around 15 mins. by trike only). 

the entrance

restaurant and pool area

lots of greens around

Nothing to be Afraid of Siquijor

happened on February 23, 2017

With  a lot of good reviews on this place, I was really dying to see it.  Finally after a long wait for a promo ticket to Dumaguete, we experienced Siquijor - the land of mystery and many folk tales.

It was just an overnight visit but we were still able to see the much recommended spots.  We hired a multicab to roam around the tiny town for Php 1,500.00.

I was speechless after reaching the port.  It was a refreshing sight after two hours of sea travel.  Just look at its waters!  Instantly, all my fears about this place were swept away.

The vehicle we rented is already waiting for us for the tour that we have availed when we arrived.  First stop is the most famous landmark - Siquijor Church

mandatory shot

Hanoi| Hao Lu and Tam Coc Tours

happened in November 2016

I enjoyed this tour more than Halong Bay tour.   It includes (1) mandatory factory and souvenir shops visit, (2) Old Temple, (3) Hao Lu Tam Loc, (4) Bicycle tour, (5) lunch and (6) land transportation from and to Old Quarters.  Travel time is around 1.5 - 2 hours from the Old Quarters to Ninh Binh Province.

We started with Hao Lu Ancient Capital.

entrance to the temples

from Wikipedia:  It is the capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries in Truong Yen Thuong Village.  It is an independent Vietnamese polity founded in 948AD by local warlord "First Dinh Emperor".  It is believed that his soul rests in this temple.

ricefields and mountains 

I enjoyed the view here of ricefields and mountains.  The air is so fresh as well.  It's the country side at its best state.  

Hanoi| Halong Bay Cruise

happened in November 2016

Unfamiliar with Hanoi, I opted to avail of the packaged tour for Halong Bay which is really the best option as it's very hard to communicate with the locals,  Thanks for the net and blogs for the very helpful tips I got on the best package available.  We booked through www.alovacruises.com - Go Asia Travel. We are also grateful to S for dealing with our bookings and even paid for it in advance.  What can I say? Life is really great!

the famous fighting cock formation.  A ritual is being held here, where every boat circles these formations as a good luck for the journey ahead.

We availed of the Halong Bay and Hao Lu Tam Loc tours for only US$106.00 for 2 days trip.  We only got the basic package for the Halong Bay but was surprised to learn that it was upgraded to a nicer boat and coaster without extra cost.  S is really a great negotiator.  The agent even visited her for this booking.  Great customer service indeed!